An Audi Q5 might be more comfortable, but a X3 superb driving experience and spacious, high-quality interior makes it one of the very best large SUVs to buy. And if you want to combine those elements with a serious turn of pace, the M40i is one of the best performance SUVs around.

Trim:

Adds larger 19in alloy wheels and a more aggressive-looking bodykit. Sadly, you also get overly stiff sports suspension, although you can opt out of this for no extra charge. The cheaper trims make far more sense.

Engine:

Provides good, usable performance that's helped by its slick, responsive eight-speed automatic gearbox. When we tested it, this engine managed 0-60mph in 8.1sec, just 0.2sec behind the rival Q5 2.0 TDI 190. However, it is a little grumblier than the Q5 when you rev it.